▪ Give a drink to plants that rain doesn’t reach, such as those under eaves or under evergreen trees. Well-watered plants hold up better to frost than thirsty ones.

▪ Bring in branches of pyracantha, holly, toyon or other berry-bearing foliage to decorate your home. Also good are boughs of cedar, pine, redwood, fir, juniper, cypress or other evergreens. They smell great, too.

▪ Take advantage of end-of-year bulb sales. Plant spring bulbs such as daffodils, callas and Dutch iris. Get them in the ground or pots immediately.

▪ If chilly nights are forecast, remember to mulch, water and cover to protect tender plants from frost. Succulent plants are at particular risk if temperatures drop below freezing. Be sure to remove coverings during the day.

▪ After storms, empty standing water that may have collected in saucers under potted plants to avoid root rot.